Frankie Dettori set to face second inquiry into positive drug test in France

Frankie Dettori’s chances of being banned over his positive drugs test in
France on Sept 16 increased on Tuesday evening when it appeared as though
his case would almost certainly be referred to the disciplinary committee of
France-Galop.

If, as expected, Tuesdayday’s findings of a three-man medical conference that inquired into his positive test for a prohibited substance at Longchamp, are referred to the stewards, Dettori and his legal team would have to return to Paris within three weeks.

At the offices of France-Galop in the Paris suburb of Boulogne Billancourt, Dettori gave evidence to the doctors via a conference call. Alarmed by the massive media interest in the case – there were four television networks and news agencies in attendance – the jockey chose not to show up in person. He asked for – and was granted – permission to answer the panel’s questions by telephone.

It is thought that Dettori would seek official approval for a similar procedure should there be a subsequent inquiry.

Henri Pouret, the director of racing and regulation for France-Galop, confirmed that the medical conference had reached a decision in the Dettori case. “The conclusions will be forwarded to Mr Dettori. France-Galop will give a statement after the party [Dettori] has been notified,”he said.

Dettori, 41, is looking at a six-month riding ban if the case is forwarded to the disciplinary committee and at this stage of his career, when he has just severed relations with Sheikh Mohammed and Godolphin, a lengthy absence from the saddle could threaten his future.

The medical committee deliberated for more than two hours before a brief statement was made to the media in the gathering gloom in front of France-Galop headquarters.

Christopher Stewart-Moore, representing Dettori, said: “A hearing of the medical committee of France Galop was held at 12.30pm [Paris time] today, at which Frankie Dettori and his legal advisers made representations. The medical committee will announce their decision shortly and we will then comment further on Frankie Dettori’s behalf.”

Earlier in the day, Julien Pescatore, director of press relations for France-Galop, insisted that Dettori had not been targeted on Arc trials day. He explained that, on average, the authorities tested around five jockeys a day, but on big occasions, that figure was expanded to 15. “In a season, there are between 700 and 900 tests on jockeys carried out in France each year. It is random, but every jockey can expect to be tested at least once a year,” he added.

Pescatore said that on Sept 16, three jockeys had been tested for alcohol and two had their urine tested.